Description
Hearty chili cheese dog casserole brings classic comfort food to life with its irresistible layers of savory goodness. Melted cheese, juicy hot dogs, and zesty chili combine into one crowd-pleasing dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 1 package (8 count) hot dogs
- 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) chili
Bread Base:
- 1 package (8 count) hot dog buns
Cheese Topping:
- 2 cups (480 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F, ensuring a hot cooking environment for the casserole.
- Create a robust base layer by evenly distributing the chili across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Transform hot dog buns into rustic bite-sized chunks, arranging them carefully atop the chili foundation.
- Slice hot dogs into manageable pieces, scattering them generously over the bun layer.
- Blanket the entire surface with a rich, even coating of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Shield the casserole with aluminum foil, protecting the ingredients during initial baking for 25 minutes.
- Uncover the dish, allowing direct heat to transform the cheese into a golden, bubbling masterpiece during the final 10-minute bake.
- Serve immediately while the casserole remains piping hot, capturing the perfect blend of melted cheese, savory chili, and hearty hot dog elements.
Notes
- Swap hot dog buns with gluten-free alternatives for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the same delicious texture and flavor profile.
- Reduce sodium by using low-sodium chili and selecting lean hot dogs to make this comfort dish slightly healthier without compromising taste.
- Create a vegetarian twist by replacing hot dogs with plant-based sausages and using vegetarian chili for a meat-free casserole that’s equally satisfying.
- For added crunch and nutrition, sprinkle some chopped green onions or jalapeños on top before the final cheese layer to elevate the dish’s flavor complexity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 412 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 920 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg